Renters’ Rights Act: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

Introduction

 

Housing reform is on the horizon. The UK government’s Renters’ Rights Bill (also referred to in some documents as the Renters’ Rights Act when enacted) promises to bring major change to the private rented sector in England. Although not all details are final, many of the key provisions have been published—and it’s clear the law will shift the balance of power (and obligations) between landlords and tenants. At KhanMather, we believe it’s crucial for both sides to understand what’s coming, how it will change day-to-day renting, and how to prepare.

 

Key Changes in the New Legislation

 

Here are some of the most important proposed changes.

What the Bill proposes?

No-fault evictions (“Section 21” notices)

Landlords can issue Section 21 notices to evict tenants at the end of fixed-term ASTs (Assured Shorthold Tenancies) without giving a reason. ([GOV.UK][1])

The Bill will abolish Section 21 notices. Evictions will require valid legal grounds (using a reformed Section 8 / other grounds) even for ending periodic tenancies. Fixed-term ASTs will largely disappear; all tenancies will tend to become periodic (rolling) tenancies. ([Shelter England][2])

 

Fixed-term tenancies

Many tenancies are fixed for a term (e.g. 6 or 12 months) that ends on a given date; tenant and landlord often must negotiate renewal. ([Shelter England][2])

These will largely be phased out: the law proposes that assured shorthold/fixed-term ASTs convert to periodic assured tenancies. Tenancies will no longer have a fixed end date in the same way. ([Dentons][3])

 

Rent in advance & deposit & fee limits etc.

Currently landlords often ask for several months’ rent in advance plus deposits, plus letting/holding fees etc. There are some restrictions already (e.g. Tenant Fees Act), deposit protection requirements. ([GOV.UK][4])

Under the new law: limits on rent in advance (usually max one month), stricter rules on rent increases (must give notice, and tenants will have stronger rights to challenge them) etc. ([Shelter England][2])

 

Landlord redress / Ombudsman / regulation

There are existing complaint / redress systems (for agents, etc.), but private landlords are not currently universally required to join an ombudsman or a redress scheme. ([British Landlords Association][5])

The Bill introduces a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman (or redress scheme) which all private landlords with assured or regulated tenancies will be required to join, whether or not they use an agent. This provides tenants with a free route to complain about a landlord’s conduct. Landlords who fail to join will face penalties (civil and potentially criminal). ([GOV.UK][1])

 

Deposit protection

Already by law: deposits must be protected in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) scheme (if the tenancy is an AST). There are rules about giving prescribed information etc. ([GOV.UK][4])

The Bill reinforces tenants’ rights and strengthens enforcement. Existing obligations remain, and non-compliance will have more serious consequences. Also, deposit protection links into the broader regulatory / redress regime so that landlords not complying with deposit protection may find themselves disadvantaged in other ways (e.g. eviction rights, enforcement). ([Shelter England][2])

 

What It Means for Landlords

If you own or manage rental property, these changes will require planning and adaptation. Key implications:

  1. Eviction / Possession Claims

You will no longer be able to rely on Section 21 “no-fault” notices. If you need to regain possession, you will need to use specific legal grounds (e.g. rent arrears, sale of the property, needing for personal occupation) under the reformed Section 8 or equivalent. You’ll need to ensure your grounds are valid, properly documented, and notice periods follow the new statutes. ([Dentons][3])

  1. Tenancy Structure & Certainty

With fixed‐terms effectively going away (for new tenancies, and existing ASTs converting to periodic tenancies), landlords will lose some of the certainty of knowing when a tenancy will end. Advance notice, clarity of grounds, and good communication will become more important. ([Dentons][3])

  1. Joining the Ombudsman / Redress Scheme

From the new scheme’s launch, you will *legally* be required to join it. Failure to do so could lead to penalties, loss of certain rights (e.g. possibly the right to possession under some grounds), and exposure to compensation claims from tenants. ([GOV.UK][1])

  1. Deposits & Advance Rent

Make sure that deposits are always protected under a recognised scheme and all prescribed information is given. Check your practices around requesting rent in advance and ensure you don’t exceed allowable limits once the law changes. Failure to comply could reduce or eliminate some of your legal protections. ([Shelter England][2])

  1. Dispute / Complaints Handling

Since tenants will have access to the ombudsman, and outcomes may be binding or enforceable, procedures for responding to complaints, keeping records, encouraging best practice, and ensuring communication/documentation are critically important. It may make sense to review template notices, tenancy agreements, breach / warning letters, etc., to ensure they stand up to scrutiny.

  1. Possible Costs / Administrative Burden

There may be fees for joining the ombudsman, costs for registering on any PRS (Private Rented Sector) database, updating tenancy agreements or policies, and ensuring compliance with standards (housing condition, safety, etc.). Also, there may be transitional arrangements, but it’s wise to start preparing early.

  1. Market Behaviour & Risk

Some landlords may try to exit the sector if they feel the regulatory burden or risk has increased. This could reduce supply. Also, rents may increase to cover extra costs (fees, compliance, etc.). There may also be more scrutiny of landlord practices (repairs, safety, fairness).

 

What It Means for Tenants

The Bill aims to give tenants greater security, clearer rights, and better protection from unfair practices. Highlights include:

 

  1. Greater Security of Tenure

Without Section 21, tenants will have more protection from eviction without cause. You’ll need to comply with the tenancy obligations, but you’ll also have the right to stay unless a landlord can show a legal (fair) reason. If you have an AST, your tenancy may convert into a periodic tenancy, which helps avoid uncertainty. ([Dentons][3])

  1. Fairer Rent Increases

Landlords will need to follow specified notice periods for rent increases. Tenants will have routes to challenge increases they believe are unfair, possibly via tribunal or ombudsman. ([Shelter England][2])

  1. Limits on Advance Payments & Deposits

Expect limits on how much you can be asked for in advance (rent, etc.). Deposits must be protected, and you should receive prescribed information. This helps avoid surprise costs. ([Shelter England][2])

  1. Access to Complaints & Redress

The introduction of a mandatory ombudsman redress scheme means that tenants will (for the first time in many cases) have a formal, free mechanism to complain about landlords, for example, over repairs, unfair terms or behaviour, or mismanagement. This should give more power and some recourse without necessarily going to court. ([GOV.UK][1])

  1. Improved Transparency

With landlords required to register and properties listed on PRS databases (where those are introduced), plus stricter regulation on what information must be provided (before and during tenancy), tenants should be better able to see who owns/lets a property, its history of compliance, and prospective costs.

  1. Protections Against Rogue Landlords

Because non-compliance by landlords (e.g., with deposit protection, with the Ombudsman scheme) will have consequences, tenants may be better shielded from unfair practices and landlords who cut corners.

 

What Is Not Yet Certain / Potential Areas of Debate

While many proposals are clear, some details remain to be finalised, and some parts may evolve in debate or via regulation. Key things to watch:

  • The precise commencement date for all parts of the Bill (when each change takes effect). Some parts may have transitional arrangements.
  • The exact notice periods for different kinds of possession grounds.
  • How “reasonable” rent increases will be judged; what tribunal or appeal process will look like in practice.
  • How strict enforcement will be, and exactly how council powers will work.
  • The cost of joining the ombudsman or registering in the database, and whether those costs will be small/administrative or more significant.
  • How well local authorities are resourced to enforce the new rules.
  • Possible unintended consequences: e.g. some landlords may reduce investment, or raise rents to cover risk, or be more selective in tenants.

 

Practical Tips: Preparing Now

Here are things landlords and tenants can do to get ready.

For Landlords:

  • Audit all your current tenancies: fixed-term ASTs, notice periods, deposit protection, breach/warning procedures.
  • Review and update tenancy agreements to make sure they don’t contain terms that will become invalid or unenforceable under the new law.
  • Ensure you use a government-approved deposit protection scheme AND issue prescribed information properly.
  • Plan your record-keeping: maintain good documentation of rent arrears, communications with tenants, repair requests etc., to support any legal grounds for possession.
  • Budget for compliance: joining the Ombudsman, registering on any landlord/PRS database, possible audit or inspections, updating repairs/maintenance obligations etc.
  • Train or inform agents or staff about the changes.

 

For Tenants:

  • Check your tenancy agreement: see what type of tenancy you have (AST, periodic etc.), whether your deposit is protected, what notices are required.
  • Keep records of all communication (particularly about rent, repairs, deposits etc.).
  • Know which approved deposit protection scheme is being used, and your rights under that. If you believe a rent increase or eviction is unfair, ask for clear reason in writing; find out whether the Ombudsman or tribunal is available.
  • Keep up to date with the government guidance as parts of the law come into force.

 

Conclusion

The Renters’ Rights Bill / Act is shaping up to be the most significant overhaul of the private rented sector in many years. It promises greater stability and protections for tenants, but also brings new obligations, risks, and regulatory demands for landlords.

At KhanMather, we believe that being ahead of the curve is always best. Whether you’re a landlord, agent or tenant, getting familiar early with the forthcoming rules—reviewing your practices, updating your paperwork, understanding your rights and responsibilities—will help avoid costly mistakes, disputes, or enforcement issues.

If you’d like help with reviewing your tenancy agreements, preparing compliance reports.

Can A Beneficiary Live in a Property Before Probate?

Dealing with a loved one’s estate after they’ve passed away can be a complex and emotional time. At KhanMather, we often get asked many questions, and one that frequently arises is: “Can a beneficiary live in a property before probate is granted?”

It’s a very understandable question, especially if the property is the main asset of the estate or if the beneficiary needs a place to live. However, the short answer, like many things in law, is it’s not always straightforward and often comes with significant risks.

Let’s break down the key considerations.

What is Probate and Why is it Important?

Before diving into occupancy, it’s crucial to understand probate. Probate is the legal process of validating a will (if one exists) and granting the executors or administrators the authority to manage the deceased’s estate. This authority is formally given through a document called the Grant of Probate (if there’s a will) or Letters of Administration (if there isn’t).

Until this grant is issued, the executors or administrators generally do not have the legal power to transfer ownership of assets, including property.

The Risks of Moving In Early

While it might seem practical for a beneficiary to move into a property they are set to inherit, doing so before probate can lead to several complications:

  • Lack of Legal Authority: Without the Grant of Probate, the executors don’t legally own the property. This means they cannot formally give permission for someone to reside there. Any occupation could technically be considered trespassing by the estate, even if the individual is a beneficiary.
  • Insurance Issues: This is a major concern. Many home insurance policies become void or severely limited if the property is occupied by someone who isn’t the legal owner or if it’s left unoccupied for an extended period. If a beneficiary moves in without proper authority, it could invalidate the insurance, leaving the property vulnerable to damage, theft, or liability claims without cover. Always check the specific terms of the deceased’s home insurance policy.
  • Disputes Among Beneficiaries: What if there are multiple beneficiaries, and not all agree on one person moving in? This can create significant rifts and legal challenges, potentially delaying the entire probate process.
  • Estate Debts and Liabilities: Before probate is granted, the full extent of the deceased’s debts may not be known. If the estate turns out to be insolvent (meaning debts outweigh assets), the property might need to be sold to cover these liabilities. A beneficiary living in the property could complicate this sale and potentially be asked to leave.
  • Maintenance and Bills: Who is responsible for utilities, council tax, and maintenance costs if a beneficiary moves in before probate? This can become a point of contention and financial burden if not clearly agreed upon and managed.

When It Might Be Possible (with caution)

In some very specific circumstances, and with extreme caution, a beneficiary might be able to occupy the property. This usually requires:

  • Unanimous Agreement: All executors and all other beneficiaries must explicitly agree in writing to the arrangement.
  • Clear Terms: There should be a written agreement outlining who is responsible for bills, insurance, and maintenance during the pre-probate occupancy.
  • Executor’s Discretion (and Risk): The executors would be allowing this at their own risk, as they are not legally empowered to do so until probate is granted. They could be personally liable if something goes wrong.
  • Insurance Confirmation: Crucially, the estate’s insurance provider must be informed and confirm in writing that the policy remains valid under the new occupancy arrangement.

Our Advice at KhanMather

While it can be tempting for a beneficiary to move into a property before probate, especially if they are in urgent need, we generally advise against it due to the significant legal, financial, and practical risks involved.

Our recommendation is always to wait until the Grant of Probate has been issued. At that point, the executors have the legal authority to manage the property, including allowing a beneficiary to reside there or transferring ownership.

If you are an executor or a beneficiary facing this situation, it is essential to seek expert legal advice. The team at KhanMather in Altrincham has extensive experience in probate and estate administration and can guide you through these challenging decisions, helping to protect the estate and avoid future disputes. Please call Georgina on 0161 850 9911 for further information to discuss your needs.

Asylum Seeker Accommodation in Altrincham Hotels: Is it affecting the house prices?

Altrincham has always been a sought-after location, known for its vibrant town centre, excellent schools, and beautiful residential areas. In recent times, however, a new topic of conversation has entered the local discourse: the use of hotels, such as the Cresta Court, to house asylum seekers. This has prompted many questions from residents, including concerns about the potential impact on our community and, specifically, on local house prices.

As a law firm deeply rooted in the Altrincham community, we at KhanMather Solicitors understand these concerns and believe it’s important to provide clarity on the legal and practical aspects of this issue.

The Legal Obligation

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework. The UK government has a statutory obligation under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 to provide accommodation and support to asylum seekers who are destitute while their claims are being processed.

For years, the Home Office has relied on a “dispersal” model, where asylum seekers are placed in private rental accommodation across the country. However, due to a significant increase in asylum applications and a shortage of suitable housing, the government has increasingly turned to hotels as a form of “contingency accommodation.” While the government has stated its commitment to ending the use of hotels, this temporary measure remains in place.

Impact on Local Communities

The decision to use a hotel as asylum accommodation is a Home Office matter, often made with limited consultation with local authorities or residents. This lack of transparency has understandably led to frustration and concern within communities like Altrincham.

Some of the key concerns raised by residents and local councils include:

  • Strain on Local Services: There are worries about the additional pressure on already stretched services such as healthcare, education, and policing.
  • Loss of a Community Asset: The repurposing of a hotel means the loss of a venue for weddings, conferences, and tourism, which can impact the local economy.
  • Community Cohesion: The sudden change can sometimes lead to tension and division, as seen by the protests and counter-protests that have taken place outside Altrincham’s Cresta Court hotel.

The Question of House Prices

When it comes to the effect on house prices, the situation is complex. There are arguments on both sides, and research on the matter is varied.

  • Potential Negative Impact: Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that the presence of asylum seeker accommodation can have a negative effect on local property values, particularly in areas with lower-priced, lower-quality housing. The argument is that some residents may choose to move out, creating a downward pressure on prices. This can be exacerbated by negative sentiment or public perception, which may deter potential buyers.
  • Minimal or No Impact: Conversely, other reports and research suggest that the impact is minimal, or even non-existent, especially in established, high-demand areas. The presence of asylum seeker accommodation is often just one of many factors that influence house prices. The overall strength of the local market, including job opportunities, school ratings, and other amenities, typically has a far greater effect.

In Altrincham, a town with a strong property market and a reputation for being a desirable place to live, it is unlikely that the presence of one or two hotels housing asylum seekers would be the sole factor in causing a significant drop in house prices across the board. However, it’s important to recognise that individual properties in very close proximity to the affected hotels might see some degree of fluctuation or a longer time on the market.

Our Perspective as a Law Firm

At KhanMather, we advise clients on a wide range of property and legal matters. While we cannot predict the future of the housing market, we can provide guidance on the legal implications of property transactions and disputes.

If you are a homeowner or a potential buyer in the Altrincham area and have concerns, our advice is to:

  • Seek Informed Legal Advice: Understand your legal rights and obligations.
  • Conduct Thorough Research: Look at the wider market trends in the area, not just a single, isolated factor.
  • Focus on the long-term view: The use of hotels for asylum seekers is a temporary measure, and the government has a stated policy of ending this practice.

The situation in Altrincham is a microcosm of a much larger, national issue. As a community, we must navigate this challenge with understanding and an informed perspective. While the legal and logistical aspects are complex, our role is to help our clients understand their position and make sound decisions based on accurate information, not speculation.

Leasehold vs. Freehold: Understanding the Key Differences Before You Buy

When you start looking for a new home, you’ll encounter two fundamental types of property ownership: freehold and leasehold. It’s a distinction that goes far beyond a simple label and has significant implications for your rights, responsibilities, and long-term costs.

At KhanMather Solicitors, we help our clients understand the nuances of both and guide them toward a purchase that is right for them. Here’s a simple breakdown of the key differences to consider before you buy.

Freehold: The Full Ownership Model

Freehold ownership is the most straightforward type of property ownership in the UK.

  • What it is: When you buy a freehold property, you own both the building and the land it stands on outright, for an indefinite period.
  • Common examples: Most houses in the UK are sold as freehold.
  • Key implications:
    • Full Control: You are the sole owner and are responsible for all repairs, maintenance, and insurance of the property. You have the freedom to carry out most alterations (subject to planning permission and building regulations).
    • No Ground Rent: You do not have to pay ground rent to a landlord.
    • No Service Charges: You are not subject to service charges for the maintenance of communal areas, as there are none.
    • Easier to Sell: Freehold properties are generally more attractive to buyers and lenders because there are fewer legal complexities involved.

Leasehold: The Long-Term Rental Agreement

Leasehold ownership is essentially a long-term tenancy agreement.

  • What it is: You own the right to live in the property for a fixed period (the “term of the lease”). You don’t own the land or the structure itself—that remains with the “freeholder” or “landlord.”
  • Common examples: Almost all flats and apartments, and a growing number of new-build houses, are sold as leasehold.
  • Key implications:
    • Fixed Term: Leases can be very long (99, 125, or even 999 years). However, the length of the lease is crucial. As the term gets shorter (typically below 80 years), the property becomes harder to mortgage and can drop significantly in value.
    • Ground Rent & Service Charges: You will typically have to pay annual ground rent to the freeholder and service charges for the maintenance of the building’s structure and communal areas (e.g., roof repairs, stairwell cleaning, communal gardens).
    • Lease Covenants: The lease will contain covenants (rules) that you must abide by. These can restrict what you can do with the property, such as making alterations, owning a pet, or sub-letting.
    • Lease Extension: If your lease term becomes too short, you will need to extend it. This can be a complex and costly legal process, and it requires negotiation with the freeholder.

Which is the Right Choice for You?

When choosing between a freehold and a leasehold property, here’s what to consider:

  • For Freehold Buyers:
    • Pros: Full control, no ground rent or service charges, generally a more straightforward sale.
    • Cons: You are solely responsible for all maintenance costs, including unexpected and expensive repairs to the roof or foundations.
  • For Leasehold Buyers:
    • Pros: The freeholder is responsible for maintaining the building’s structure and communal areas, which can be a relief for flat owners.
    • Cons: Ongoing ground rent and service charges, potential for costly lease extensions, and less control over your property.

Your Conveyancing Solicitor: Your Guide to the Fine Print

Whether you are buying a freehold or a leasehold property, having an expert conveyancing solicitor is non-negotiable.

For freehold properties, we will scrutinise the title deeds and searches to ensure you are gaining full ownership with no hidden surprises.

For leasehold properties, our role is even more critical. We will:

  • Examine the length of the lease.
  • Analyse the ground rent and service charge clauses.
  • Review all covenants to ensure you understand any restrictions.
  • Check for any known issues with the freeholder.

At KhanMather Solicitors, we provide expert, jargon-free advice on your property purchase. We will help you understand the long-term implications of a leasehold or freehold title, giving you the confidence to make a truly informed decision.

If you are thinking of buying, contact Hannah on 0161 850 9911 today for a conveyancing quote and a clear explanation of your options.

5 Key Conveyancing Searches and What They Mean for Your House Purchase

When you’re buying a house, you’ll hear a lot about surveys and mortgage offers. But there’s another, equally critical part of the process that happens behind the scenes: conveyancing searches.

At KhanMather Solicitors, we often describe these searches as the legal equivalent of a thorough check-up on the property. While a survey tells you about the physical condition of the building, the searches tell you about the legal health of the property and the land it sits on. They can reveal hidden issues that a physical inspection would never uncover, and they are essential for protecting your investment.

Here are five key conveyancing searches and what they mean for your purchase.

  1. Local Authority Search

This is arguably the most important of all the searches. We submit a request to the local council to find out a wealth of information, including:

  • Planning Permission: Have there been any planning applications (granted or refused) for the property or land nearby? This is crucial for understanding potential future changes to the area.
  • Building Regulations: Has the property had any extensions or alterations, and were they approved by the council? This can reveal unapproved work that might cause problems later.
  • Roads: Is the road the property is on adopted by the council? If not, the residents might be responsible for its upkeep.
  • Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: Is the property in a conservation area or is it a listed building? This can place significant restrictions on future modifications.
  1. Drainage and Water Search

This search is carried out with the local water and sewerage authority. It confirms how the property is connected to the public drainage and water mains. It reveals:

  • Public Sewers and Drains: Are there public sewers running under the property? This is vital information, as it could affect your ability to build an extension or carry out other works.
  • Water Supply: Is the property connected to a public water supply, and is it metered?
  • Drainage: How is wastewater drained from the property?

This search can flag issues that might lead to unexpected costs, such as the need to pay for a private drain to connect to the public sewer.

  1. Environmental Search

This search, conducted through a specialist third-party company, looks at the land’s history to assess any environmental risks. It will highlight:

  • Contaminated Land: Has the land previously been used for industrial purposes, such as a factory or a landfill? This could mean it contains harmful contaminants that would require costly clean-up.
  • Flooding Risk: Is the property located in a high-risk flood zone?
  • Radon Gas: What is the risk of radon gas levels in the area?

While these risks are often low, uncovering them is crucial for a complete picture of the property’s suitability.

  1. Chancel Repair Liability Search

This may sound archaic, but it’s still a valid concern. The search checks if the property is in a parish where landowners are liable for the cost of repairing the local church’s chancel (the part of the church around the altar). While rare, this liability can be unlimited, so it’s a risk we always check for. In some cases, we might advise taking out insurance to protect against it.

  1. Title Register and Plan

While not a ‘search’ in the same way as the others, reviewing the Title Register and Plan from the Land Registry is a fundamental part of the process. These documents confirm:

  • Ownership: Who legally owns the property.
  • Boundaries: The official legal boundaries of the property.
  • Easements and Covenants: Any rights of way (e.g., a neighbour’s right to access your driveway) or restrictions (e.g., a covenant preventing you from building an extension).

A thorough review of the title documents by a solicitor is essential to ensure you are aware of any limitations or rights affecting the property.

Your Protection is Our Priority

These searches are a fundamental part of our job as your conveyancing solicitors. They provide the peace of mind that you are not just buying a building, but also all the legal rights and responsibilities that come with the land. Skipping them to save a small amount of money could expose you to significant financial and legal risk in the future.

At KhanMather Solicitors, we pride ourselves on our meticulous approach to conveyancing. We don’t just order the searches; we analyse the results, explain them in plain English, and advise you on how to proceed. If you’re buying or selling a property, contact our friendly and experienced property Team today on 0161 850 9911 for a conveyancing quote.

 

Leases

Leasehold residential properties are a common type of housing in many countries around the world. They are particularly popular in urban areas, where land is scarce and expensive. In this blog, we will discuss leases with regards to leasehold residential properties, including what they are, how they work, and some of the key issues that arise in relation to them.

 

What is a Leasehold Residential Property?

 

A leasehold residential property is a type of property where the owner of the property only owns it for a fixed period of time. This period is determined by the lease, which is a legal contract between the owner (known as the landlord) and the occupier (known as the tenant). The lease will set out the terms and conditions under which the tenant can occupy the property, including the rent that they will pay, the length of the lease, and any other obligations that they may have.

 

How do Leasehold Residential Properties Work?

 

Leasehold residential properties work by giving the tenant the right to occupy the property for the length of the lease. During this time, they will be responsible for paying rent to the landlord and complying with any other obligations set out in the lease. These may include things like keeping the property in good condition, not making any alterations without the landlord’s permission, and not using the property for any illegal purposes.

 

At the end of the lease, the property will typically revert back to the landlord, unless the tenant is able to renew the lease or purchase the freehold. This can create uncertainty for tenants, particularly those who have invested a lot of time and money into improving the property.

 

Key Issues with Leasehold Residential Properties

 

One of the main issues with leasehold residential properties is the cost of ground rent and service charges. Ground rent is an annual fee that the tenant pays to the landlord for the use of the land on which the property is built. Service charges are fees that the tenant pays to cover the cost of maintaining the common areas of the property, such as the communal gardens or lifts.

 

In some cases, these fees can be very high, particularly if the landlord has sold the freehold to a third-party company. This can make it difficult for tenants to afford the cost of living in the property, and can also make it harder for them to sell the property when they want to move on.

 

Another issue with leasehold residential properties is the difficulty of making alterations to the property. Many leases will require the landlord’s permission before any alterations can be made, and this can be a slow and bureaucratic process. This can make it hard for tenants to make the property their own, and can also reduce the value of the property if potential buyers are put off by the restrictions.

 

Conclusion

 

Leasehold residential properties are a common type of housing in many countries around the world. They offer tenants the right to occupy a property for a fixed period of time, but can create uncertainty and financial challenges due to the cost of ground rent and service charges. Tenants may also face restrictions on making alterations to the property, which can reduce its value and make it harder to sell. If you are considering buying or renting a leasehold residential property, it is important to carefully review the terms of the lease and seek legal advice if necessary. Please call our conveyancing department on 0161 850 9911 to discuss any lease concerns you may have.